On July 2, 1997, an Aviat A-1 (registration N13HU) operated by Christopher T. Condy was involved in an aviation accident near Novato, CA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: the pilot's inadequate compensation for wind conditions during landing, and his subsequent failure to maintain directional control of the aircraft. The gusty crosswind condition was a related factor. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
During a landing on runway 31, a crosswind gust caused the aircraft to veer right into a drainage ditch, where it nosed over. No mechanical issues were found.
Accident Details
The pilot reported that while landing on runway 31, the aircraft encountered a crosswind gust. The aircraft then veered off the right side of the runway and entered a drainage ditch as it slowed almost to a stop. Upon contacting the bottom of the ditch, the aircraft nosed over onto its back.
Runway Marks
Examination of runway 31 revealed marks that began near the right side of the runway at a distance of 1,934 feet from the approach end. At 2,110 feet from the approach end, tire tracks departed the right side of the runway and continued for 120 feet until terminating at the drainage ditch. The ditch was 25 feet wide and 6 feet deep, paralleled the runway, and was located 45 feet from the runway edge.
Aircraft Examination
Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) inspectors examined the aircraft and observed no mechanical discrepancies.